Geometric frustration arises when lattice structure prevents energetic interactions between neighbouring particles to be minimized, leading to complex phases of matter. This paper reports a simple geometrically frustrated system composed of closely packed colloidal spheres confined between parallel walls. Because the diameter of the spheres is tunable, the system provides a unique means to directly visualize the dynamics of frustration, thermal excitations and defects.
- Yilong Han
- Yair Shokef
- Arjun G. Yodh
